Welcome Angel Galloza, Our New Director of Training
We are so proud and excited to announce Angel Galloza as the new Director of Training at the Finishing Trades Institute of Southern New England (FTISNE).
In Angel's Own Words
“As the new Director of Training for FTISNE, I came through the evolution of this program, and as it grew, I grew with it, never imagining I'd have a hand in shaping our future leaders. Now it's my time to give back. Alongside my team, we're taking charge and leading the foundation my predecessor set forward to the next level, hands on, across glazing, drywall, and commercial and industrial painting, creating life changing opportunities that guide our members to their full potential and build the next generation of leaders in our trades.”
If you've spent any time around our programs, Angel needs no introduction. He most recently served as our Glazing Coordinator, and for years before that he was a dedicated FTI instructor who left his mark on countless apprentices and journeypersons. Throughout it all, Angel has been a genuine source of inspiration for apprentices, journey workers, fellow instructors, and staff alike.
Angel's story is one of steady growth and truly relentless drive. He stood out from the very first days of his apprenticeship. As previous Director of Training Mike Komaromi put it, Angel has been a leader from the beginning and that leadership has only sharpened over the years. He is deeply driven, genuinely open to new ideas, and someone who always reaches for the stars, inspiring everyone around him to do the same.
If we had to describe him in three phrases it would be: strong sense of siblinghood, get’s shit done, dreamer of a bright future for all.
Alongside building curtianwalls and storefronts for two decades, Angel built an impressive academic foundation. He obtained his Master Instructor degree by creating the Door Hardware Technician program that is launching across the United States and Canada.
He is also taking his career even farther currently by pursing a degree in business. The blend of hands-on trade expertise and business know-how is just one reason that makes him such a perfect person to carry our training programs forward.
His commitment to our members runs even deeper. For many years, Angel served as President of Local 1274, where he poured his heart into lifting up the local and the people in it. He fought for his members, championed their growth, and worked tirelessly to make the local stronger, more united, and better positioned for the future. That same dedication, to people, to community, and to raising everyone up with him is what he now brings to our training programs.
Since stepping in as Coordinator, Angel has been on a mission to changing things for the better, and our programs have grown tremendously under his influence. We can't wait to see all the ways he'll continue to improve our programs, support our instructors, uplift our students, and strengthen District Council 11 and the trades industry as a whole.
Get to Know Angel
What is your favorite tool? My favorite tool is the Glass Manipulator Spider.
What is your favorite job you've worked on? 860 Canal Street in Stamford, Connecticut. It's located on the waterfront and is home to The Wheel restaurant.
What is your favorite class to teach? Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW).
How do you take your coffee? About four large coffees a day - light cream, no sugar.
What do you always have in your toolbox? My flat bars, tape measure, and something to write with.
What is your favorite hobby? Coaching my son's baseball team.
Who is a mentor you look up to? I've had a few mentors who helped shape different parts of my life. In my personal life, Pastor Joseph Carr Jr. has shared his wisdom and helped me recognize my potential through faith. In my career, Mickey Kekac guided me through opportunities that helped me discover my potential and grow professionally.
What advice would you give a first-year apprentice? Be patient, show up, and stay consistent. Always be accountable for your actions. These habits will help guide you throughout your career.
Join Us in Welcoming Brother Angel
Please join us in congratulating and welcoming our Brother Angel Galloza to his new role. We couldn't be more excited for this next chapter and for everything he'll bring to our members, our instructors, and the future of our trades!
In solidarity,
FTISNE/IUPAT District Council 11
